Which service is typically held without the presence of the body?

A memorial service is characterized by the absence of the deceased's body during the proceedings. This type of service focuses on honoring and celebrating the life of the individual who has passed away, providing an opportunity for family and friends to gather, share memories, and offer support to one another. It can take place days, weeks, or even months after the death, allowing for more personal reflections and tributes without the immediate need for the physical presence of the body.

In contrast, a funeral service usually involves the body of the deceased, often presented in a casket, and incorporates various rituals and practices aligned with cultural and religious traditions. A wake service generally takes place before a funeral, serving as a time for viewing the body and an informal gathering of family and friends. The committal service is specifically focused on the final disposition of the body, typically held at the gravesite or crematorium, and thus also includes the physical presence of the deceased.